HC Deb 03 July 1940 vol 362 c830
47. Sir Ralph Glyn

asked the Prime Minister whether an early statement can be made as to who is to exercise supreme authority in connection with matters of home defence and internal security, in view of the fact that instructions are now being received from five or six Ministries, often contradictory and involving the recipients in a large amount of paper work?

Mr. Attlee

Yes, Sir. An early statement on this subject will be made. I cannot accept the allegation contained in the Question.

Sir R. Glyn

Will consideration also be given at that time to the lack of coincidence between the different areas? Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that the regional commissioners' areas do not coincide with any military command, and that the result is that confusion must arise?

Mr. Attlee

I am aware that there is certain overlapping between the different areas. There are many areas in this country which have grown up in time, and they do not in all cases coincide. I think it would be impossible to revise them at the present moment.

Sir R. Glyn

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that the country desires to give full support to the Government, but that confusion in the orders that are issued does not help?

Mr. De la Bère

Does it not become clearer and clearer that there is no real co-ordination? Why not get on with it?